Sawda bint Zam'a
Umm al-Mu'minin
Sawda was the second wife of Prophet Muhammad, whom he married after the death of Khadija. She was an elderly widow who had migrated to Abyssinia and suffered hardships for Islam.
- Born
- Born circa 589 CE in Mecca
- Died
- Died circa 674 CE (54 AH) in Medina
- Cause of death
- Natural causes in old age
Early Life and Sacrifice
Lady Sawda was an early convert to Islam who endured immense hardships. She and her first husband migrated to Abyssinia to escape the persecution of the Quraysh. After her husband passed away, she was left isolated and vulnerable as a widow.
Marriage to the Prophet
To protect her and honor her sacrifices for Islam, the Prophet (PBUH) married her shortly after the tragic passing of Lady Khadija (s.a.). She was older and not known for beauty, which emphasizes that the Prophet's marriages were often for social protection and strengthening communal ties rather than worldly desires.
Her Noble Character
In Shia tradition, she is respected for her deep devotion, piety, and accommodating nature. Recognizing her advanced age, she willingly gave up her scheduled turn with the Prophet to another wife to maintain peace and harmony within the household. She lived a quiet, devout life and cared deeply for the Prophet's family.